An Ergonomics Evaluation of Certain ATM Dimensions

Although millions of automatic teller machines (ATMs) are currently used all over the world, users of ATMs still have usability problems including inappropriate user-ATM interaction, display problems and others. Many developed countries already have standards in place for ATMs. However, this is not the case in many other countries. This paper aims to assess certain dimensions of ATM machines and their suitability for users in Middle Eastern countries using anthropometric measurements of the user population taking Saudi Arabia as a case study. Dimensions of all ATMs used in Saudi Arabia were measured and compared with recommended dimensions based on anthropometric measurements of the user population. Results show that there is a mismatch between the dimensions of ATMs used in Saudi Arabia and the recommended dimensions based on the user population. Practical recommendations are given as to improve the usability of ATMs in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries.